Overview:

This resource introduces learners to a variety of parasites found in the wild through a practical investigation in which students search for model clay parasites hidden within simulated animal faeces. The activity builds observation and identification skills while encouraging students to think about how parasites spread, why different individuals may carry different infections, and what scientists can learn from studying local wildlife poo samples. It comprises a comprehensive teacher’s guide / lesson plan, clear instructions for preparatory work with photos attached, student identification key sheets, a PowerPoint presentation displaying close-up parasites and a memory card-matching game.

This activity is intended for small groups of around ten students and takes around 40 minutes to deliver. It can be adapted for learners aged approximately 11-14 (SCQF Level 2-3).

This resource was created as part of the NERC Edinburgh Environmental Days outreach and widening participation initiative. It has been created for use as an Open Educational Resource (OER) by the OER Service, within the University of Edinburgh’s Information Services Group. As an OER, teachers are welcome to make any changes to their resources according to their needs.

Learning outcomes:

Planet Earth: Biodiversity and interdependence

• SCN 2-01a: I can identify and classify examples of living things, past and present, to help me appreciate their diversity. I can relate physical and behavioural characteristics to their survival or extinction.
• SCN 3-01a: I can sample and identify living things from different habitats to compare their biodiversity and can suggest reasons for their distribution.

Biological systems: Body systems and cells

• SCN 1-13a: I know the symptoms of some common diseases caused by germs. I can explain how they are spread and discuss how some methods of preventing and treating disease benefit society.

Topical science

• SCN 1-20a: I have contributed to discussions of current scientific news items to help develop my awareness of science.
• SCN 2-20a: Through research and discussion I have an appreciation of the contribution that individuals are making to scientific discovery and invention and the impact this has made on society.

This resource was created by Olivia Fleming and adapted by Charlotte Ness.

Unless otherwise stated, all content in this package is available under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.